Description
Transform your meals with this vibrant and easy Mexican Rice Recipe. This flavorful dish elevates plain white rice into a colorful, savory side that is perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Made with fresh ingredients like jalapeño, bell pepper, and zesty tomato sauce, every bite delivers a burst of flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this versatile side pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, beef tacos, or even vegetarian options. It’s easily customizable—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own. Enjoy a delightful addition to your meals that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 small jalapeno (seeded and finely diced)
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- kosher salt (to taste)
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- optional: finely chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly using a fine mesh sieve to remove excess starch.
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and jalapeño; sauté for 1-2 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Stir in the washed rice and toast for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Mix in cumin, kosher salt, tomato sauce, and broth; bring to a boil.
- Cover and reduce heat to low; simmer for about 15 minutes until rice is cooked.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Experiment with additional vegetables like corn or peas for extra nutrition. For added flavor, consider using homemade vegetable or chicken broth instead of store-bought. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored for quick meals throughout the week.